an unsolved problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an unsolved problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an issue or question that has not yet been resolved or answered. Example: "The mathematicians gathered to discuss an unsolved problem that had puzzled researchers for decades."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That sounds like an unsolved problem". So is that it?

The Guardian

Pain control during this procedure is still an unsolved problem.

Contraception

The problem of automatic segmentation of pathological images still remains an unsolved problem.

Columbia University

Bridgers stored the CDs on a shelf and filed the project away as an unsolved problem.

The New Yorker

That may be, but it is also damning evidence of an unsolved problem.

The New York Times

In the future, equipment operators may work in sealed cabs, but communication is an unsolved problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But you recognize this is going to remain an unsolved problem.

The New York Times

After all, a dissertation generally consists of making a new advance, solving an unsolved problem.

Harvard University

For decades, communicating between underwater and the air has remained an unsolved problem.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In 1979 Mori proved Hartshorne's conjecture, an unsolved problem in algebraic geometry.

Britannica

Tracheal circumferential defects involving more than half of the tracheal wall still represent an unsolved problem.

Electrospinning for Tissue Regeneration

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "an unsolved problem", provide context to clarify the specific issue being discussed. This enhances clarity and ensures the audience understands the problem's significance.

Common error

Be mindful not to exaggerate the uniqueness of a problem. While it may be unsolved, similar challenges might have been explored in different contexts. Acknowledge any related research or attempts to avoid misrepresenting the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an unsolved problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It identifies a specific issue or question that has not yet been resolved. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an unsolved problem" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to a question or issue that has not yet been resolved. Ludwig AI indicates that its use is appropriate in English writing. Its versatility allows it to be used in various contexts, especially within scientific, academic, and news media. While semantically similar phrases like "an unresolved issue" or "an open question" can be used, it's essential to provide sufficient context when using "an unsolved problem" to ensure clarity and avoid overstating the novelty of the issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unresolved issue

Focuses on the state of being not resolved rather than the act of solving.

an open question

Emphasizes that the matter is still under consideration or debate.

an outstanding challenge

Highlights the difficulty and importance of the problem.

a pending question

Suggests the problem is waiting for a solution or answer.

an unanswered question

Focuses on the lack of an answer or response to the problem.

a matter pending resolution

Formal way of saying something is not solved yet and is being considered.

a problem awaiting a solution

Emphasizes the need for a solution to be found.

an issue yet to be addressed

Highlights that the problem has not been tackled or dealt with.

a gap in knowledge

Focuses on the lack of information or understanding about the problem.

an area lacking resolution

Highlights a specific domain or field where a solution is missing.

FAQs

How can I use "an unsolved problem" in a sentence?

Use "an unsolved problem" to refer to a question or situation that hasn't been resolved. For example: "The mysteries of dark matter remain "an unsolved problem" in astrophysics".

What are some alternatives to saying "an unsolved problem"?

You can use phrases like "an unresolved issue", "an open question", or "an outstanding challenge" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "an unsolved problem" in formal writing?

Yes, "an unsolved problem" is suitable for formal writing, especially in academic or professional contexts where discussing unresolved issues is common.

What makes a problem qualify as "an unsolved problem"?

A problem qualifies as "an unsolved problem" when no satisfactory solution or resolution has been found despite attempts to address it.